Secret US Military Operation in North Korea Ended in Tragedy and Failure

A covert US Navy SEAL operation in North Korea in 2019, targeting the interception of Kim Jong-un’s communications, was recently brought to light. The mission, which involved installing an electronic device, was approved by the highest levels of the US government, according to a report in The New York Times. However, a critical error led to the deaths of three North Korean citizens and the mission’s subsequent failure. The commandos, who had undergone months of training and preparation, approached the North Korean coast in mini-submarines after being transported by a nuclear submarine. The SEALs, who were responsible for the killing of Osama bin Laden, faced a crucial moment when they encountered a small boat near the shore. Misinterpreting the situation, the commandos engaged the boat, resulting in the deaths of the occupants. Upon investigation, the commandos found unarmed civilians, who seemed to be gathering seafood. To conceal the incident, the commandos sabotaged the bodies before aborting the mission. This operation took place during the Trump administration’s efforts to engage Kim Jong-un in nuclear talks. The North Korean government has not acknowledged the event. Neither the White House nor the Pentagon has released an official statement. The New York Times notes that the mission was not disclosed to key members of Congress, potentially violating federal law.